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Description
Vicia Villosa Subsp. Varia, commonly known as Hairy Vetch, is a fast-growing annual plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to North America, where it is commonly used as a cover crop. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a sprawling growth habit. It produces small, purple flowers that bloom from May to July and is known for its nitrogen-fixing abilities.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Vicia |
| Species | Vicia villosa |
| Subspecies | Vicia villosa subsp. varia |
Appearance
Hairy Vetch has long, trailing stems that can grow up to 3 feet long. The leaves are compound, with 10-20 leaflets that are oval in shape and hairy. The plant produces small, purple flowers that bloom from May to July. The flowers are followed by small, oblong pods that contain seeds. The plant has a sprawling growth habit and can cover large areas.
Care Guide
Water
Hairy Vetch requires moderate watering. It can tolerate drought but grows best with regular watering.
Fertilization
Hairy Vetch is a nitrogen-fixing plant and does not require additional fertilization.
Soil
Hairy Vetch prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH.
Sunlight
Hairy Vetch grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Hairy Vetch can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hairy Vetch is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Hairy Vetch is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to North America. It can be found growing in fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It is commonly used as a cover crop to improve soil health.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hairy Vetch a good cover crop?
A: Yes, Hairy Vetch is an excellent cover crop. It can improve soil health by fixing nitrogen, suppressing weeds, and preventing erosion.
Q: How tall does Hairy Vetch grow?
A: Hairy Vetch can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Q: Does Hairy Vetch require fertilization?
A: No, Hairy Vetch is a nitrogen-fixing plant and does not require additional fertilization.
Q: What is the blooming period for Hairy Vetch?
A: Hairy Vetch produces small, purple flowers that bloom from May to July.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Vicia genus:
- Vicia faba
- Vicia sativa
- Vicia cracca
References
- “Hairy Vetch.” USDA. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=VVSA.
- “Vicia villosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284279&isprofile=0&.
- “Hairy Vetch.” Cornell University. https://blogs.cornell.edu/sustainablecroppingystems/tag/hairy-vetch/.
